After signing a new two-year contract with the Sky Blues, Chris Stokes has targeted a return to the third tier at the first time of asking next season.

The defender made his return from a lengthy spell on the sidelines during the back end of last season to feature on nine occasions, including the memorable Wembley triumph.

With his injury problems behind him, Stokes has been encouraged by the latest additions to the City squad.

He said: "I've been at the club a long time now and I feel settled here. With the players the manager has signed I can definitely see a chance of going straight back up and I want to be a part of that.

"It was a tough season for myself and the team last year. We've got to put that to the back of our mind and focus on Coventry City returning to the higher divisions."

The Sky Blues face a different challenge next season, but with the upturn in form since the arrival of Mark Robins, Stokes feels there is genuine optimism.

"It's going to be tough, alot of League Two sides are very physical and each game is going to be a challenge.

"It's been a good start in terms of the additions Mark has made to the squad, and I'm sure there will be a few more in the coming weeks which can only help us improve.

He added: "The form at the end of last season is why I am here, with the manager coming in and giving us all a lift it felt good to be part of the club and that needs to continue moving forward."